As the days get less and less until we take on the Galway Warriors in the playoffs, we caught up with player and board member Jason Duddy.

​As a former youth player, now senior player and member of the clubs board of management, how much has the club advanced since you first started playing? “The club has come on miles since I started playing. Starting in the youth team I was nervous and not sure what to expect but right away I felt at home.

That's one thing that hasn't changed in the club, the way everyone makes you feel welcome right from the start. We have a great team at the minute and on and off the pitch we have advanced in ways I can’t explain to be honest.

We wouldn't be in the position we are now if it wasn't for everyone who has helped in any way possible over the last few years and with the new ideas coming into the club every day, I can't wait to see this club in a few years.”

At 22, you are one of the youngest members on the clubs board of management. How are you finding your role as Development Officer? “At first I wasn't sure about it, but I’m loving it. I'm still learning but as you say, I'm young, so I'm sure I will have many years in this role (hopefully).

The rest of the board help me out a lot and it’s actually amazing how much goes into running a club like this. They don't get the credit they deserve.”

The senior team has had a solid 2018, what has most impressed you about the squad so far this year?“One main thing that has impressed me is how well everyone has gelled. This year, just like last year we have had a great number of rookies, and sometimes the rookies can feel like they aren’t doing much or getting much game time but they have been valuable this season and hopefully have a great impact on the next game.

I just want to say to them, we notice, everyone notices, every training session you go to, every time you give your all for the team, we notice. The rookies have been playing well especially my fellow defensive linemen Joe Marley and Mo.”

With the start of the playoffs only a short time away, what are your hopes for the outcome of this season?“I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want to win, everyone wants to. However I would like another chance at the final at least, obviously win and end this season with the best group of lads on a high.”

What will the key be to beating Galway on Sunday?“I think the key is simple. Play to our strengths. Since our last game got cancelled we had an interesting and very worthwhile training session instead which the team focused on little but crucial things and I have no doubt they will stand us in good stead for this crucial game on Sunday.”